"Programs Designed to Fit Each Skater"

Music is one of the most powerful tools in figure skating. It shapes how a program feels, how confident a skater looks, and how effectively technical and artistic elements come together. From Compete USA skaters just starting out to IJS Elite competitors skating Short and Free Programs, music selection, professional editing, and expert choreography work best as a connected process.

Compete USA: Age-Appropriate Music Builds Confidence

For Compete USA skaters, music should support learning, confidence, and enjoyment of competition. Age-appropriate music is especially important at this level—not only to meet judging expectations, but to help young skaters feel comfortable expressing themselves on the ice.

Well-chosen music for Compete USA skaters:

• Matches the skater’s age, maturity, and personality

• Has clear rhythm and phrasing

• Supports basic skating skills and elements

• Encourages performance without overwhelming the skater

Music that feels too mature, dramatic, or complex can make young skaters appear uncomfortable or disconnected. Thoughtful editing keeps programs clean, upbeat, and fun—allowing skaters to focus on skating well and gaining positive competition experiences.

IJS Elite: Music and Choreography for Maximum Impact

At the IJS Elite level, music and choreography become strategic tools. Skaters must perform both a Short Program and a Free (Long) Program, each with specific technical requirements. The music must support not only artistry, but also technical execution, stamina, and scoring potential.

Expertly edited music allows:

• Clear musical accents for required elements

• Logical structure for program composition

• Smooth transitions that maintain speed and flow

• Emotional development across the entire program

Once the music is finalized, expert choreography is added to design the program in the most effective way possible.

Choreography Designed for Scoring and Stamina

Professional choreographers build programs by:

• Placing required technical and skating skills elements in the best order for scoring

• Supporting strong GOE opportunities

• Balancing difficulty with recovery moments

• Managing stamina so the skater finishes strong

This approach allows skaters to perform demanding elements at their best while maintaining energy, confidence, and performance quality through the entire program.

Why Professional Music Editing Matters

Music editing for skating is not simply cutting a song to the correct length. It requires understanding skating movement, timing, and competition structure.

Professional music editing provides:

• Smooth, intentional transitions

• Clear phrasing for jumps, spins, and step sequences

• A strong beginning and a memorable ending

• Music that feels natural to skate to

Janet is an expert in figure skating music editing, and understands how music selection, editing, and choreography work together. Her experience spans all levels—from Compete USA through IJS Elite—ensuring music supports both technical success and artistic expression.

Parent FAQ: Music, Editing, and Choreography

Why can’t my child just skate to a song they like?
A favorite song may not fit the skater’s age, maturity, or skating style. Music must also work structurally for skating elements and competition requirements.

What does “age-appropriate music” mean?
It means music that reflects both the skater’s age and emotional maturity. For Compete USA skaters, judges expect programs that feel comfortable, appropriate, and natural.

Does music choice affect scores?
Yes. While music itself isn’t scored, skating to the music directly impacts performance, interpretation, and composition.

Why is professional music editing important?
Poor editing can cause rushed elements or awkward timing. Professional editing supports confidence, consistency, and overall polish.

When should choreography be added?
Choreography should be created after the music is selected and edited. This allows elements to be placed on musical highlights and ensures the program flows naturally.

How does choreography affect IJS scores?
Expert choreography helps maximize technical scores and Program Components by placing elements in the best order and supporting strong execution.

How does choreography help with stamina?
Programs are designed to balance difficult sections with recovery moments so skaters can maintain energy and quality throughout the program.

What’s the difference between Compete USA and IJS music needs?

• Compete USA: Age-appropriate, clearly structured, confidence-building music

• IJS Elite: Strategically edited Short and Free Programs that support technical requirements, stamina, and artistry

How does working with Janet help?
Janet specializes in figure skating music editing and ensures music is age-appropriate, professionally edited, and designed to support both choreography and competitive success.

Final Thought

Great skating starts with the right music. When music selection, expert editing, and professional choreography are done in the right order, skaters are set up for confidence, consistency, and success—at every level of competition.